Thunderbird

^{The clouds grew dark as a figure in the sky approached with impressive speed. The bright feathers of this enormous winged creature made for a stark contrast in the sky. It seemed to be coasting on the winds above, but with every flap of its wings the rumbling of thunder could be heard.}

A Highport Skydog's alleged sighting of the Thunderbird

Summary

According to legend the Thunderbird is so large that one feather from their wingspan would have to be folded in half to properly fit into a quiver. Additionally, these creatures were so large and mighty that they could easily carry a whale in their talons. Every year there is at least someone who claims to have caught a glimpse of the creature in a thunderstorm. Still, many scholars find it unlikely that the Thunderbird could exist in the beastlands without being seen on a more regular basis. In spite of this the Thunderbird continues to be a point of fascination for many.

Variations & Mutation

There are several stories that survive by word of mouth among beastland natives that mention the Thunderbird. In these stories the creature appears to be a protector, but also an enforcer of morality – one that should never be angered. Many of these tales suggest that the Thunderbird had the ability to shapeshift into humanoid form. It supposedly did this by removing its feathers, which could be put on and taken off like a blanket, and tipping its beaks up over its head similar to the way one might do with a mask. When this was done, the Thunderbird could walk among humanoid folk without drawing attention. All that needed to be done for it to transform again was to pull down its beak and put on its feathers again.